Episode Summary:

Welcome to The REAL in Real Estate Podcast! Are you tired of the real estate hustle culture that demands endless hours for uncertain results? This episode offers a powerful alternative. We explore how to build a massively successful business—without working more than 40 hours a week by focusing on genuine relationships instead of cold leads.

Host Jean speaks with Garrett Maroon, a realtor, author, and podcast host who has closed nearly 650 homes in 11 years by prioritizing authenticity and care. He argues that in an era of AI, trust is the only real currency, and your most effective strategy is to build a business that serves the life you truly want.

In this episode, you will learn:

✔️ The 9-Year Follow-Up That Paid Off: Hear the incredible true story of a client who never responded to Garrett's monthly check-ins for nine straight years, only to call him out of the blue to sell his home, proving that consistent care builds deep trust, even in silence.

✔️ How to Define Success on Your Own Terms: Learn why Garrett fired a coach who insisted he make 300 cold calls a week. Discover how to first define the life you want and then build a business that serves that vision, focusing on "traction, not distraction."

✔️ Why Authenticity is Your Greatest Asset: Your unique personality is a client-attraction tool. Get inspired by creative, real-world examples, like an agent who sold seven houses in a year by starting a "Reel Estate" fishing group on Facebook.

✔️ Simple Ways to Stand Out in a Noisy World: Discover high-impact, low-cost strategies to "hit them where they ain't." Learn why handwritten notes (which account for less than 0.7% of mail) and small "just because" gifts are more powerful than any automated message.

How to Reach Garrett Maroon:

• Book: Pre-order "The Balance Breakthrough: Winning at Work Without Losing at Life," which comes out on November 25th. Visit thebalancedbreakthrough.com for a free download to help you build your business.
• Podcast: Listen to "The Faithful Agent" podcast, which explores building a real estate business from a Christian perspective.

Listen to the full episode now:

• https://the-real-in-real-estate.captivate.fm/listen

Thanks for Listening:

Big thanks for tuning into our podcast! If this episode brought a smile to your face, consider sharing it through the social media buttons on this page. Got thoughts or questions about today's topic? Drop a comment below or reach out via our website. Your engagement keeps the conversation alive!

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Welcome to The REAL in Real Estate Podcast! In a unique and hilarious deviation from our usual format, this episode takes a break from expert analysis to dive into the lighter, more unpredictable side of the business. Get ready for a collection of the funniest and strangest real estate stories you've ever heard.

In this special episode, your host takes the mic to share a curated collection of wild, weird, and laugh-out-loud stories from agents in the trenches. It’s a hilarious reminder that this business is anything but boring.

In this episode, you will hear stories about:

✔️ Why Real Estate Isn't Like HGTV: Hear the tale of an agent who expected her clients to buy a house after seeing just three homes, proving that real-life transactions are far more complex than a 30-minute TV show.

✔️ Unexpected Showings Gone Wild: Get ready for laugh-out-loud mishaps, including multiple stories of agents falling into pools and the universally awkward experience of walking in on a naked homeowner.

✔️ The Strangest Open House Guests: Discover the unforgettable open house featuring a cat with a major flatulence problem, and learn about the controversial "for sale" sign that advertised "quiet neighbors" while pointing at a graveyard.

✔️ Lessons from the Chaos: Behind every funny story is a lesson. Learn how these unpredictable moments teach the importance of a calm demeanor and a good sense of humor in becoming a successful agent.

If you need a great laugh and a reminder of the wonderfully weird side of real estate, you won't want to miss this.

Listen to the full episode now:

• https://the-real-in-real-estate.captivate.fm/listen

Thanks for Listening:

Big thanks for tuning into our podcast! If this episode brought a smile to your face, consider sharing it through the social media buttons on this page. Got thoughts or questions about today's topic? Drop a comment below or reach out via our website. Your engagement keeps the conversation alive!

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Welcome to The REAL in Real Estate Podcast, your go-to show for real estate success. In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest challenges for aspiring homeowners: affordability. If you've ever felt that owning a home was out of reach, this conversation will give you a clear roadmap to making your dream a reality.

We're joined by LeTisha Grant, a Texas affordable housing specialist who is an expert at helping people get into homes they never thought they could own. She shares the secrets to navigating down payment assistance programs and unlocking the door to homeownership.

In this episode, you will learn:

✔️ The "Stacking" Model for Down Payment Assistance: Discover the powerful strategy LeTisha uses for 90% of her clients—stacking multiple assistance programs to bridge the gap between your approved loan amount and the home's price.

✔️ Do You Qualify? The Path to Homeownership: Get the clear requirements for affordable housing programs, including the minimum credit score (620+), income limits (at or below 120% of the area median), and eligible counties.

✔️ How to Unlock Up to $100,000 in Assistance: Learn about specific, life-changing programs like the City of Houston CHODO program that can provide up to $100,000 to buy down your principal, cover closing costs, or even lower your interest rate.

✔️ The Future of Affordable Homes (including 3D-Printed Houses): Find out about builders who specialize in "affordable luxury" and learn about the innovative construction of over 150 3D-printed homes that are making homeownership more accessible than ever.

How to Reach LeTisha Grant:

LeTisha encourages everyone to take the first step. You can start the process by filling out her form or contacting her directly.

• Homeownership Form: bit.ly/stfhomeownership
• Office Number: 713-929-3411 (Rings directly to her cell)
• Email: [email protected]

Listen to the full episode now:

• https://the-real-in-real-estate.captivate.fm/listen

Thanks for Listening:

Big thanks for tuning into our podcast! If this episode brought a smile to your face, consider sharing it through the social media buttons on this page. Got thoughts or questions about today's topic? Drop a comment below or reach out via our website. Your engagement keeps the conversation alive!

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Mentioned in this episode:

Website

Broderickdean.com

Welcome to The REAL in Real Estate Podcast, your essential resource for achieving success in the real estate industry. In this episode, we're giving you an exclusive inside look at H Engage, the annual big production event that agents treat as a "big pep rally" to energize their business for the year ahead.

Our guide for this deep dive is Jeremy Fain of Greenwood King Properties, the leader and head chair of H Engage. He pulls back the curtain on what makes this a can't-miss day of learning, networking, and motivation for Houston real estate professionals.

In this episode, you will learn:

✔️ Get Current Market Insights from a National Expert: Discover what's next for the national and local Houston real estate markets from NAR's Deputy Chief Economist, Dr. Jessica Lautz.

✔️ Leverage Technology and AI in Your Business: Learn about the latest technology tools and get practical advice on how to effectively incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into your real estate business to gain an edge.

✔️ Learn from the Best with Top Producer Panels: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the day-to-day structures and business models of the area's top-producing agents and learn actionable takeaways to implement in your own business.

✔️ Master the Principles of "Unreasonable Hospitality": Hear from Lindsay Peekom, who worked on the best-selling book, and learn how to translate its world-renowned service concepts to elevate your client experience and stand out from the crowd.

How to Reach Jeremy Fain:

• Company: Greenwood King Properties
• Phone: 713.677.4337
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Jeremyfain.com

Listen to the full episode now:

• https://the-real-in-real-estate.captivate.fm/listen

Thanks for Listening:

Big thanks for tuning into our podcast! If this episode brought a smile to your face, consider sharing it through the social media buttons on this page. Got thoughts or questions about today's topic? Drop a comment below or reach out via our website. Your engagement keeps the conversation alive!

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Episode Summary:

Welcome back to "The Real in Real Estate"! In this popular archived episode, we revisit a crucial discussion with lender extraordinaire Chris Kelso, focusing on the ever-changing landscape of interest rates. If you're trying to understand how we arrived at today's rates and what they mean for your home-buying power, this episode is your definitive guide.

With 23 years of experience in the mortgage industry, Chris Kelso provides invaluable insights, breaking down complex market dynamics—from government policy to inflation—into clear, understandable concepts.

In this episode, you will learn:

✔️ The Real History of Interest Rates: Discover why today's 7% rates aren't historically high when compared to the 11% rates of 1999 or the all-time average of 7.5%. This context is key to making a confident decision.

✔️ What Really Controls Mortgage Rates: Go behind the curtain to understand Mortgage-Backed Securities (MBS) and how the government's actions during and after COVID-19 directly impacted your mortgage rate.

✔️ The Fed's Role in Your Wallet: Learn how the Federal Reserve's fight against inflation, by raising rates to 5.25%, has influenced the market and why Chris Kelso offers his personal opinion that they may have "gone too far."

✔️ 3 Actionable Strategies for Today's Buyer: Get the details on powerful loan options like the 2-1 buy-down program, VA loans (with rates in the low sixes), and first-time homebuyer programs that can make homeownership more affordable right now.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the forces shaping real estate and make informed decisions about their future.

How to Reach Chris Kelso:

• Cell Phone (best way): 713-256-9138
• Website: newamericanfunding.com/chriskelso
• Email: [email protected]

Listen to the full episode now:

• https://the-real-in-real-estate.captivate.fm/listen

Thanks for Listening:

Big thanks for tuning into our podcast! If this episode brought a smile to your face, consider sharing it through the social media buttons on this page. Got thoughts or questions about today's topic? Drop a comment below or reach out via our website. Your engagement keeps the conversation alive!

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🎙️ Episode Summary:

Welcome to The REAL in Real Estate Podcast — your go-to show for real estate success, offering expert advice, insider tips, and real talk for agents, buyers, and sellers. In this episode, host Jean sits down with Brian Spack, widely known as the guru of customer service, for a powerful and personal conversation about what it truly means to serve clients in real estate.

With decades of experience and a reputation built on integrity, follow-through, and heart, Brian shares why real estate isn’t just about homes — it’s about people. If you’ve ever questioned how to stay grounded while growing your business, this is the episode for you.

👥 Meet Brian Spack:

A deeply respected agent with a client-first philosophy, Brian Spack is proof that doing the right thing — even when it’s hard — builds a thriving business. His signature approach blends tireless work ethic with genuine care, making him a trusted name and mentor in relationship-based real estate.

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

✔️ The Indispensable Client-First Mindset

Real estate isn’t about money, titles, or flashy success — it’s about people. Brian reminds agents that the profession is about serving, not selling, and that the happiest agents are those who lead with integrity, not ego.

✔️ Follow-Up That Builds Lifetime Loyalty

From handwritten thank-you notes before cashing commission checks to quarterly cookie deliveries and milestone calls, Brian shares a follow-up strategy that keeps clients feeling valued long after closing day.

✔️ Radical Honesty = Real Trust

"I will talk you out of more than I talk you into." Brian’s unapologetic honesty wins client trust — because sometimes the most loyal clients are the ones you saved from making a bad decision.

✔️ Total Dedication — No Exceptions

Brian reveals the emotional and time-intensive demands of the job — including negotiating for clients from his father's gravesite. Real estate requires sacrifice, responsiveness, and unwavering commitment. If you’re not all in, it may not be for you.

📲 Connect with Brian Spack:

Social Media: Find him on Instagram and Facebook: @BSpack

👀 Keep an eye out for his upcoming reel series answering the question: “What does the ‘S’ stand for?”

🎧 Listen to the full episode now:

https://the-real-in-real-estate.captivate.fm/listen

Thanks for Listening:

Big thanks for tuning into our podcast! If this episode brought a smile to your face, consider sharing it through the social media buttons on this page. Got thoughts or questions about today's topic? Drop a comment below or reach out via our website. Your engagement keeps the conversation alive!

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Mentioned in this episode:

Website

Broderickdean.com

Welcome to The REAL in Real Estate Podcast, your go-to show for real estate success! In this episode, host Jean is joined by Luke Acree, President of ReminderMedia, for a masterclass on relationship marketing. If you've ever wondered why satisfied clients don't always return or how to stand out in a crowded market, this conversation is for you. Luke provides the proven strategies you need to build unbreakable client loyalty and grow your business.

Luke Acree is a lead generation specialist and referral expert who has helped over 100,000 entrepreneurs by teaching them to build businesses based on relationships. Under his leadership, ReminderMedia has achieved over $300 million in sales and has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 list of America's fasting-growing companies for four consecutive years.

In this episode, you will learn:

✔️ How to Overcome the "Loyalty Gap": Discover why up to 90% of clients are satisfied, yet only 11-23% use the same agent again. Luke explains how to bridge this gap and ensure you're the one agent clients call, especially since 81% of sellers only interview one agent.

✔️ The "5 for 5" Call Strategy: Learn Luke's #1 piece of advice for any agent. This simple, powerful strategy involves spending just five minutes a day making five personal "thinking about you" calls to your database to put your marketing efforts "on steroids."

✔️ Strategies to Stand Out from the "Agent Pile": In a market with 1.5 million agents, learn how to differentiate yourself with exclusive marketing tools like personally branded magazines and automated digital campaigns that save you time and keep you top-of-mind.

✔️ Using Data to Predict Your Next Lead: Uncover the "likely to move" algorithm that uses "D-list" life events (divorce, diapers, downsizing, etc.) to predict who is likely to sell their home in the next 12-24 months, giving you a massive advantage in targeted outreach.

How to Reach Luke Acree:

• Website: remindermedia.com
• Phone: 866-458-4226 (for special offers)
• Social Media: Find him on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok with the handle @lukeacree
• Podcast: Listen to his Top 30 marketing podcast at staypaidpodcast.com

Listen to the full episode now:

• https://the-real-in-real-estate.captivate.fm/listen

Thanks for Listening:

Big thanks for tuning into our podcast! If this episode brought a smile to your face, consider sharing it through the social media buttons on this page. Got thoughts or questions about today's topic? Drop a comment below or reach out via our website. Your engagement keeps the conversation alive!

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Episode Summary:

Welcome to The REAL in Real Estate Podcast, your essential guide to navigating the dynamic world of real estate! In this insightful episode, we're joined by Roland Atlinger from the Harris County Appraisal District (HCAD), who shares expert advice and insider tips to empower every homeowner, buyer, and seller. The goal is simple: to get the facts out to the public about how property appraisals and taxes really work.

Roland Atlinger, with an incredible 40 years in real estate and 36 years at HCAD, provides a masterclass on the largest appraisal district in Texas. Learn the inner workings of the organization that appraises nearly 1.9 million properties annually.

In this episode, you will learn:

✔️ The Protest Process Demystified: Discover why the May 15th deadline is critical, what you are actually protesting (hint: it's not your taxes), and how you can easily file a protest online from home using tools like "I-settle."

✔️ Unlocking Homestead Exemption Savings: Learn how the homestead exemption can slash a tax bill from $12,000 down to $5,500. We cover the new law that lets you file any day of the year and how the school tax exemption has increased to $100,000, saving you more money than ever.

✔️ How Your Property Value is Actually Determined: Bust the myth of the automatic 10% increase. Roland explains how the 10% homestead cap works and why over 40% of properties in Harris County saw a decrease in value in 2024.

✔️ Critical Exemptions You Can't Afford to Miss: Get the details on other vital exemptions, including those for homeowners over 65, disabled veterans, and the essential Temporary Disaster Exemption for properties damaged in natural disasters.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of property appraisals, exemptions, and the protest process directly from an HCAD expert!

For more information and forms:

• Visit the Harris County Appraisal District at hcad.org

Thanks for Listening:

Big thanks for tuning into our podcast! If this episode brought a smile to your face, consider sharing it through the social media buttons on this page. Got thoughts or questions about today's topic? Drop a comment below or reach out via our website. Your engagement keeps the conversation alive!

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Episode Summary:

Welcome back to The Real in Real Estate Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into an incredible new homeownership opportunity with guest Brian Severin of Trio Mortgage. Brian is an expert loan officer here to break down a brand-new loan program designed to make buying a home more accessible than ever.

Brian Severin dispels the myth that you need a large down payment and shares essential guidelines, including:

✔️ How to qualify for a home loan with a minimal down payment, covered in part by a special grant.

✔️ The program’s flexible credit requirements and how it is available to more than just first-time homebuyers.

✔️ A key financial benefit this loan has over other types, which can help reduce your monthly payment over time.

✔️ The potential for an exceptionally fast and smooth closing process, getting you into your new home sooner.

This episode is full of crucial knowledge for anyone looking to purchase a home with minimal money down. If you're in the market to buy, this is a must-listen!

To connect with Brian Severin:

• Website: trio-mortgage.com/brian-severin
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 713-962-5357

Thanks for Listening:

Big thanks for tuning into our podcast! If this episode brought a smile to your face, consider sharing it through the social media buttons on this page. Got thoughts or questions about today's topic? Drop a comment below or reach out via our website. Your engagement keeps the conversation alive!

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Mentioned in this episode:

Website

Broderickdean.com

Episode Summary:

Join Jean on "The Real in Real Estate" as she welcomes Jennifer Williams, founder of Saint Louis Closet Co. and a leader in custom home organization for over 34 years. In this insightful episode, Jennifer shares her expert expertise on how smart storage and organizational systems can transform your entire home, reduce daily stress, and add significant value to your property.

Jennifer Williams shares essential insights on the power of organization, including:

✔️ The dual benefits of decluttering, which not only helps sell your home faster but also reduces the stress and anxiety caused by visual clutter in your daily life.

✔️ The comprehensive process of going custom, from a free in-home estimate with a designer to seeing a 3D rendering of your space and having it manufactured and installed in as little as one day.

✔️ The surprising range of custom solutions that go far beyond closets to include pantries, home offices, garages, and versatile Murphy beds that can transform a multi-use room.

✔️ Actionable tips to start your own journey, such as tackling one small, high-traffic area first to get the maximum benefit and how investing in simple matching hangers can make a huge difference.

This episode will show you why organization is truly the heart of every home. If you’re ready to declutter and design a more functional space, don’t miss this! To connect with Jennifer Williams:

• Website: stlouisclosetco.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/saint-louis-closet-co/
• Facebook: facebook.com/stlouisclosetco
• Instagram: @stlouisclosetco

Thanks for Listening:

Big thanks for tuning into our podcast! If this episode brought a smile to your face, consider sharing it through the social media buttons on this page. Got thoughts or questions about today's topic? Drop a comment below or reach out via our website. Your engagement keeps the conversation alive!

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Mentioned in this episode:

Website

Broderickdean.com